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Multiple Choice
Simplify the expression using exponent rules. (−5a2)(3a8)
A
−8a16
B
−10a10
C
−15a16
D
−15a10
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the expression to simplify: \((-5a^2)(3a^8)\).
Apply the multiplication rule for exponents: When multiplying terms with the same base, add the exponents. Here, the base is \(a\), so add the exponents 2 and 8.
Multiply the coefficients: \(-5\) and \(3\). This gives \(-5 \times 3 = -15\).
Combine the results: The coefficient is \(-15\) and the exponent for \(a\) is \(2 + 8 = 10\).